an elementary notion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an elementary notion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a basic or fundamental idea or concept that is easy to understand. Example: "In mathematics, an elementary notion is the concept of numbers, which serves as the foundation for more complex theories."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

And why is there such an elementary notion of making the world "work better"?

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

What we call time, and usually view as a very simple elementary notion, is actually a complex experience grounded on different levels.

The Guardian

"Some didn't have the most elementary notion of how to behave," he said.

The Guardian - Film

Apparently one needs to remind Russians of the elementary notion that totalitarian systems fall apart whereas democratic systems respond and adapt.

Forbes

The ruckus has prompted much head shaking in France, with one cinema manager saying, in typically elegant Gallic fashion, that the kids "didn't have the most elementary notion of how to behave".

Vice

And the defense memorandum is quick to quote the judge's words in another case when he criticized the gain analysis for playing such a significant role that appears contrary to "elementary notions of justice or even common sense".

The New York Times

Microbes defy a simple notion of individuality.

The New York Times

I will also assume general familiarity with elementary notions from probability, and to a lesser extent, calculus and linear algebra.

Princeton University

The first English settlers on the Atlantic Seaboard of North America brought with them only elementary notions of law.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Bank of America settlement, Rakoff wrote, "does not comport with the most elementary notions of justice and morality".

The New Yorker

We shall show how to motivate affine coordinates and affine transformations, fractal curves and iterated function systems, relaxation methods and subdivision schemes from elementary notions in turtle geometry and turtle programming.

Computer-Aided Design

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an elementary notion" when introducing a basic or easily understood concept to provide a clear foundation for more complex ideas. Ensure the context supports the simplicity and fundamental nature of the idea being presented.

Common error

Avoid using "an elementary notion" to describe ideas that require nuanced understanding or complex analysis. Overusing the phrase can undermine the depth of your argument and suggest a lack of thoroughness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an elementary notion" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or object within a sentence. It describes a concept, idea, or principle that is fundamental and easily understood. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an elementary notion" is a noun phrase used to describe a basic, easily understood concept. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. The phrase sees common usage across News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, indicating its relevance in conveying foundational ideas. While versatile, it's important to ensure the context aligns with the simplicity implied by the phrase to avoid undermining the depth of the topic being discussed. Alternatives such as "a basic concept" or "a fundamental idea" can be used to add variety or adjust the emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a basic concept

Replaces 'elementary' with 'basic', emphasizing simplicity and ease of understanding.

a fundamental idea

Substitutes 'elementary' with 'fundamental', highlighting the foundational nature of the concept.

a simple concept

Emphasizes the ease of understanding by using the word 'simple'.

a rudimentary idea

Uses 'rudimentary' instead of 'elementary', suggesting a basic stage of development.

a primary concept

Replaces 'elementary' with 'primary', indicating that it's a key concept.

a foundational concept

Highlights that the concept is essential and provides a base for further understanding.

a core principle

Shifts the focus slightly to emphasize a guiding rule or belief.

an introductory concept

Suggests that the concept is often taught at the beginning of a learning process.

a building-block concept

Implies that the concept is essential for constructing more complex ideas.

an initial understanding

Focuses on the act of beginning to grasp a concept.

FAQs

How can I use "an elementary notion" in a sentence?

You can use "an elementary notion" to introduce a basic or easily understood concept. For example, "The Pythagorean theorem is "an elementary notion" in geometry".

What phrases are similar to "an elementary notion"?

Alternatives include "a basic concept", "a fundamental idea", or "a simple concept", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "an elementary notion" formal or informal?

"An elementary notion" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider your audience and the level of detail required. In highly technical or specialized fields, a more precise term may be preferable.

Can "an elementary notion" be used in all fields of study?

Yes, "an elementary notion" can be used across various fields to describe a basic concept. However, ensure that the 'elementary' nature of the notion is appropriate for the audience and the complexity of the subject matter.